For Chef Masaki Saito of his eponymous Two MICHELIN Star spot in Toronto, dining is about excellence and enjoyment. "People in Toronto and Canada are genuine, humble, loving, kind, honest, polite, and have lots of passion," shares Saito. "They're more willing to accept foreign cultures."
To that end, Saito, who moved to Toronto six years ago, saw the potential and conquered the gastronomic scene in MICHELIN's debut year and still maintains his ranking as Canada's most distinguished chef. Acceptance from the community is what brought Saito to Toronto from New York (where he earned Two MICHELIN Stars at Sushi Ginza Onodera): "I want to help Toronto [become] one of the top-tier culinary cities in the world just like New York, Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong.”
And with such an influx of talent from all over the world, of course Saito has a few favorites. Below check out where the Starry chef goes on his (rare) nights off, and make sure to check out more insights on where to dine, stay, and more from our Inspectors, chefs, and celebrities.
Japanese: Kappo Sato
I think it's the best Japanese restaurant in Canada. They always serve amazing dishes when I'm there.
French (casual): La Banane
I think La Banane is the best casual French restaurant in Canada. All of their dishes are well-balance and delicious, and their techniques are sensitive and detailed.
Italian: Trattoria Nervosa
When I first came to Toronto, I would go there up to four times a week! They have passion and the place always has good vibes.
Chinese (Cantonese): Mott 32
Mott 32 specializes in high-end Chinese cuisine, and my preference is for their seafood dishes.
Ramen: Ikkousha Ramen
Ikkousha is a ramen restaurant and if you want to eat pork-based ramen, this is the best.
Address Book:
Trattoria Nervosa
75 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1B8, Canada
Mott 32 Toronto
190 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5H 0A3, Canada
Ikkosha Ramen
249 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z4, Canada
Hero image: Sushi Masaki Saito
